Dr Hagen is currently the USDA's Chief Medical Officer. Previously, she was a senior executive at the Food Safety and Inspection Service, where she played a key role in developing and executing the agency's scientific and public health agendas.

Before joining the federal government in 2006, Dr Hagen taught and practiced medicine in both the private and academic sectors, most recently in Washington, DC. She holds an M.D. from Harvard Medical School, and a B.S. from Saint Joseph's University. Dr Hagen completed her specialty medical training at the University of Texas Southwestern and the University of Pennsylvania, and is board certified in infectious disease.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said, “Dr Hagen brings the background, skills, and vision to lead USDA's efforts to make sure that Americans have access to a safe and healthy food supply."

In response to the announcement, American Meat Institute President J. Patrick Boyle said, “The Under Secretary position is extremely important and we are gratified that person with Dr Hagen’s scientific and medical training will lead the agency’s food safety efforts. We look forward to working with Dr Hagen and her team so that we may achieve our mutual goal: ensuring the safest meat and poultry supply possible.”